Editorial: Re-Elect Harris, Rowlett

Despite its problems -- particularly the financial hardship the city finds itself in right now -- Vacaville is still a well-run city, and credit should go to those who run it.

That is one reason The Reporter Editorial Board unanimously endorses the re-election of City Councilmembers Dilenna Harris and Ron Rowlett.

Here's another reason: Both are completing their first terms in office, which means taxpayers, whether they realize it or not, already have invested in their training. Ms. Harris and Mr. Rowlett may have occasionally stumbled as they learned the ropes but, overall, they have proved themselves capable council members. To turn them out just when they are becoming seasoned city leaders seems foolish, especially when experience is needed to guide the city through its uncertain fiscal future.

Vacaville was already struggling financially when Ms. Harris and Mr. Rowlett took office. They rightly continued the policy of drawing down the city's rainy-day reserves to avoid drastic cuts while supporting the renegotiation of salary and benefit packages, saving millions of dollars.

Employees who are being asked to do more while taking home less in their paychecks haven't always felt kindly toward council members, and that's understandable. But the council's primary job is to ensure the city's solvency -- and councilmembers Harris and Rowlett have demonstrated they understand that.

Both are proponents of engaging the public in the decision-making process. Ms. Harris's arrival four years ago added a considerable measure of civility to the council. She listens and is respectful of people who speak at meetings, and she is approachable in public. She lobbied hard and eventually succeeded in setting up a citizens committee to recommend long- and short-term budget options. She's been a strong advocate for the business community and continues to push for economic development in the city.

Mr. Rowlett has also proved to be an advocate for the public. He, too, is approachable and seemingly tireless in his efforts to help residents solve their problems. He has served as the vice mayor and, on those occasions when he has had to run the meetings, he has proved skillful at keeping everyone on track.

During an interview with the Editorial Board, Mr. Rowlett candidly assessed the council's handling of the garbage contract, explained how it ended up using both the bidding and the negotiating processes, and forthrightly observed: "In hindsight, we could have done a better job."

If he can take that lesson and apply it in the future, the city will benefit from his hands-on experience.

The Editorial Board also interviewed the three challengers competing for the two council seats. All seemed capable of doing the job, but Jennifer Goode stood out. She's got a sharp mind, and her volunteer work in the Fire Department and experience on the Community Services Commission have given her good insight into city operations.

The Editorial Board would like to see her run again.

This time, though, voters should return City Councilwoman Dilenna Harris and Vice Mayor Ron Rowlett to their seats. Re-elect them on Nov. 6.